★ Book a Trip Design Session | $60★ Book a Trip Design Session | $60

Sydney Thornton

Former Professional Guide | Outdoor Educator | National Park Ranger
Families with young kids
Solo Travel
National Park Exploration
Multi-generational groups
Travelers Aged 60+

Where I Can Help

📍South Dakota: Black Hills Region

As a former National Park Ranger at Jewel Cave National Monument, I know the ins and outs of the Black Hills—from Custer State Park and Wind Cave to Spearfish, Wall, and Hot Springs. I’ve helped countless travelers of all ages explore this region’s caves, forests, and iconic geologic wonders.

📍North Carolina: Outer Banks

During my time with the National Park Service, I worked across the Outer Banks—advising visitors on hikes, history, and beach exploration. From Jockey’s Ridge and Cape Hatteras to Ocracoke and Roanoke Island, I can help you plan a coastal trip that blends nature and culture.

📍Georgia: Coast & Inland Parks

Now based in Georgia, I’ve worked as an environmental educator on Jekyll Island and regularly explore Cumberland Island, Mistletoe State Park, and the Georgia State Botanical Gardens. Whether you’re heading to the barrier islands or the forested interior, I’ve got great trail recs and family-friendly tips.

📍National Park Sites Across the U.S.

I’ve visited over 20 National Park Service sites and worked with people from all walks of life—recommending hikes, routes, and meaningful stops based on their goals, group type, and comfort level. Whether you’re hitting the road solo or traveling as a family, I can help you navigate park systems with ease.

Book Your Trip Design Session with Sydney

Includes:
  • 25-min Zoom call with your expert
  • TripGuide delivered post call including: all recommendations from call, personalized logistics, custom Google map, and day-by-day itinerary (if applicable)
Note: your TripGuide is editable and sharable so you can loop in your travel companions

Meet Sydney

Hi, I’m Sydney! I’ve always found peace in the outdoors, and I’ve built a life and career helping others connect with it too. I currently serve as an environmental education coordinator in Georgia, and I’ve previously worked as a National Park Ranger in both South Dakota and North Carolina.

I’m passionate about helping people of all ages feel welcome and confident outside—whether you’re a parent bringing young kids, an older traveler returning to hiking, or someone venturing out solo. I’ll meet you where you’re at, and help you plan a trip full of beauty, learning, and discovery.

My Favorite Adventures

🦇 Caving and hiking through the dramatic landscape of Jewel Cave and the Black Hills

🌊 Exploring the dunes and seashores of the Outer Banks as a ranger and traveler

🚣‍♀️ Whitewater rafting and hiking through Georgia’s lesser-known wild spots

What Travelers Are Saying

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Trip Reports by Sydney

Get to know my travel style and see my favorite spots and activities
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How It Works

One call and you're dialed in.
1

Book your session.

Click to book a session where youwill be prompted to tell me moreabout your trip, select a time thatworks for you on my calendar, andcomplete payment. It's $60 for a30-minute call.

2

Let's chat.

We'll meet over Zoom video call anddive into your ideas, questions, andgoals. I'll share local tips, itineraryquestions, and guide you to the bestspots.

3

Get your personalized TripGuide.

Within a few days, you'll receive acustom TripGuide in your inbox:

→ A day-by-day itinerary

→ Local recommendations withlinks

→ A shareable, interactive map

All tailored to your travel style—and builtto help you have the best possible trip.

Extras & Credentials

📚 BA in Japanese
🧵 Enthusiastic embroiderer and collage artist
📝 Nature writer and reader
🧭 Wilderness and education experience across more than 20 U.S. National Park Service sites

Book a Trip Design Session

Let's design your dream trip—together.

What you get:

  • 25-min Zoom call with your expert
  • Personalized TripGuide with your recommendations, logistics info, and a day by day approach following the call
  • Custom Google map, curated by your expert

Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions

Send me a message

We've got it! Your expert will review you details and we'll follow up shortly via the email you provided.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a trip call?
During our 25-minute call, we'll discuss your travel style, preferences, and specific goals for your trip. I'll ask questions to understand what makes you tick as a traveler. After our call, I'll send you a custom TripGuide with recommendations tailored to your interests.
How soon will I receive my custom TripGuide?
You'll receive your personalized TripGuide within 3-5 business days after our call. For rush requests, please mention this during booking and I'll do my best to accommodate your timeline.
Can you book accommodations and experiences for me?
Yes! After reviewing your TripGuide, you can let me know which accommodations and experiences you'd like me to book. I'll handle all the reservations for you at no additional cost beyond the standard booking fees.
How does Outdoorable work?
Outdoorable connects you with experienced outdoor pros through 1:1 video calls. Whether you’re deciding between destinations, need insider tips for a specific trail, or want advice tailored to your skill level, our experts are here to help. Simply browse expert profiles, book a call, and get the guidance you need to plan your next adventure with confidence.
What can I ask an Outdoorable expert?
Anything about your outdoor trip! Need advice on hiking routes, family-friendly trails, or navigating backcountry terrain? Want to know the best time to visit Patagonia or if a specific climb is doable for your skill level? Our experts are here to give personalized insights based on their firsthand experience.
How long are the calls?
Calls are 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to ask questions, explore options, and get personalized advice. If you need more time, you can always book a follow-up session.
Can I choose which expert to talk to?
Yes! You can browse detailed expert profiles to find someone who matches your destination or activity needs. Whether it’s a hut-to-hut trek in the Alps or beginner-friendly kayaking in Croatia, you’ll find an expert who’s been there and done that.
What happens after I book a call?
Once you book a call, you’ll get a confirmation email with a link to share your questions or trip details in advance. This helps the expert prepare and ensures you get the most out of your session. You’ll also receive a link for the video call closer to the appointment.
How much does it cost?
A 30-minute call costs $60, with $45 going directly to the expert. We believe in fair pay for our pros who have invaluable expertise while keeping it affordable for adventurers.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We get it—plans change. You can reschedule or cancel your call up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. Just head to your confirmation email for details on how to make changes.
What if I don’t find the call helpful?
We strive to connect you with the best experts and provide actionable advice. If you feel your call didn’t meet your expectations, let us know. We’ll work with you to make it right. All Pros can see your questions in advance, and they will let us know beforehand if they don’t think they are the best person to provide insight.
Can I share the call with someone else?
Yes! Whether you’re planning a trip with friends or family, feel free to include them in the call. Just make sure everyone’s ready to hop on when the session starts.
Do experts plan my trip for me or give me an itinerary?
No, Outdoorable is not a trip-planning service. Our experts provide personalized advice, answer questions, and guide you with insights to help you plan your trip. Think of it as having a knowledgeable friend with all the lowdown so you can plan your perfect trip.
How do you choose your experts?
Our experts are handpicked for their firsthand experience, regional knowledge, and ability to give actionable advice. Many are professional guides, trip designers, or seasoned adventurers with years of expertise. That means their jobs are to find the best places off the beaten path. Needless to say… you’re in good hands.
What kind of trips can Outdoorable help with?
Outdoorable is perfect for all types of nature-based adventures:
• Planning a big bucket-list adventure
• Deciding between destinations based on your outdoor skill level and interests
• Finding hidden trails, parks, routes
• Preparing for a solo trip, family outing, or group adventure